Doutzen Kroes is a renowned Dutch fashion model, celebrated for her significant contributions to the modeling industry, particularly as a long-time member of the iconic Victoria's Secret Angels. Born on January 23, 1985, in Oostermeer, Friesland, Netherlands, she quickly rose to prominence in the fashion world, becoming one of the most recognizable faces in the industry.
Kroes began her modeling career in 2003 when she was discovered in her native Netherlands. Her talent and distinctive look soon attracted attention, leading her agency to send her to New York City. It was there that she caught the eye of the lingerie brand Victoria's Secret, which would later play a pivotal role in her career. She became a Victoria's Secret Angel in 2008, a title that solidified her status as one of the top models in the world and made her the second Dutch model to achieve this honor, following Karen Mulder. Kroes held this prestigious title until 2014, captivating audiences with her appearances in runway shows and advertising campaigns.
Throughout her career, Doutzen Kroes has been a prominent figure in the fashion industry, recognized not only for her work with Victoria's Secret but also for her role as a brand ambassador for L'Oréal Paris since 2006. Her ability to connect with audiences and her striking features have placed her among the highest-paid models in the world, with reported earnings exceeding $5 million per year following her inclusion on Forbes’ list of top-earning models. In 2014, she ranked second on this prestigious list, with earnings estimated at $8 million for that year. Kroes made history in 2013 by becoming the first model to grace four different solo international covers of Vogue's September issue in a single year, a remarkable achievement that highlighted her versatility and appeal.
In addition to her modeling career, Kroes made her film debut in the Dutch movie Nova Zembla in 2011, showcasing her talents beyond the runway. Her foray into acting added another dimension to her career, allowing her to reach new audiences and explore different creative avenues.
As of now, Doutzen Kroes continues to be an influential figure in the modeling world, balancing her professional commitments with her personal life. She has been married to DJ Sunnery James since November 7, 2010, and together they have two children. Kroes remains a beloved personality in the fashion community, admired for her work ethic, beauty, and dedication to various charitable causes. Her journey from a small-town girl in the Netherlands to a global fashion icon serves as an inspiration to many aspiring models and fans around the world.